Snowmaggedon 2018: Digging out of the snow storm

Winter arrived early for Virginia residents after winter storm Diego dumped significant snowfall of 12 inches or more throughout the Commonwealth yesterday.  While some Virginians may be home enjoying the snow day, others may find themselves trying to dig out in attempt to drive to work.

AAA advises residents to stay off the roadways if possible, but if driving is unavoidable, follow these safety tips before attempting to drive:

• Clear away as much snow as possible from around the tires under the vehicle and near the vehicle exhaust pipe.  This is especially important in deep snow to avoid potentially hazardous build-up of carbon monoxide inside the vehicle.
• Use the vehicle defrost system to help aid the melting of ice on the windshield.  Again, clear away any snow around the tailpipe before starting the vehicle to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If the vehicle door is frozen, use a plastic ice scraper to carefully chip any ice around the door seal and lock.  Do not attempt to unseal the door by using a cigarette lighter, ice pick, screwdriver, portable heater or torch.
• Remove snow and ice from all vehicle windows, mirrors and the roof of the vehicle.  It is against the law to drive around with an icy or snowy build-up on the vehicle.
• Make sure side mirrors, headlights, taillights and turn signals are unobstructed.
• Remove snow from windshield wiper blades and ensure fluid nozzles are clear of snow or ice.
• De-icing products can help shorten the time it takes to remove the ice from the vehicle.  Use sparingly as there are mix reviews that some products can harm a vehicle’s finish.
• Do not use a shovel to remove snow from your vehicle.  This can cause damage to the body of the vehicle.
• Do not pour hot water over the vehicle windshield or windows.  The frozen glass can easily shatter due to the sudden and extreme temperature change.
• Do not pick at the ice on the windshield by using an ice pick, screwdriver or any metal object to remove the ice as this can shatter, crack or scratch the glass.